Watch Interviews with Shah of Iran and Ayatollah Khomeini

In the midst of the growing unrest and tension in Iran in 1977, MacNeil/Lehrer Productions managed to secure an unprecedented opportunity - interviews with Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, and his main opponent, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. This was a rare and important instance of the two leaders speaking in-depth about their views on Iran's future and the changes that needed to be made in the country.

The interviews were conducted separately, and each interviewee was given a chance to share their perspective on a range of topics, from political and economic reforms to social issues and their own personal beliefs. The interviews were conducted by Robert MacNeil himself, who was a trusted and respected journalist of that time, known for his impartial and thorough reporting.

The Shah's interview was recorded in the lavish and modern Niavaran Palace and focused largely on his view of Iran's modernization and the changes he had implemented as part of that process. He spoke of his vision for a "great civilization" in Iran, and the improvements he had made in key areas such as healthcare, education, and industry. He also spoke of his own personal journey as a leader and how he had evolved his views over time. However, he also acknowledged the growing unrest and frustration among the Iranian people and the need for greater political representation and civil liberties.

Khomeini's interview was conducted in his simple home in Najaf, Iraq, and presented a stark contrast to the Shah's. He spoke of the need for radical change in Iran and the importance of returning to a more traditional Islamic way of life. He was critical of the Shah's regime, calling it corrupt and dictatorial, and spoke of the widespread poverty, inequality, and injustice he believed existed in Iran. He also spoke of the importance of religion in politics and how it could be used to create a more just society.

The interviews were groundbreaking at the time, offering a rare and intimate look at the two sides of a complex and multifaceted conflict. They highlighted the different visions held by each leader for Iran's future and underscored the deep divisions that existed within the country. Despite their differences, both interviewees showed a deep commitment to their respective causes and clearly believed in the importance of their views for the future of Iran.

The interviews were also notable for their impact on the international community. They were widely watched and discussed in a range of countries, helping to raise awareness of the situation in Iran and the growing unrest there. They were also seen as a turning point in the conflict and paved the way for the eventual revolution that would threaten to upend the existing power structures in Iran.

Overall, the Interviews with Shah of Iran and Ayatollah Khomeini from MacNeil/Lehrer Productions in 1977 were a groundbreaking event that offered a rare and important glimpse into one of the most important conflicts of the late 20th century. They highlighted the different perspectives held by each leader and helped to fuel a broader conversation about the future of Iran and the importance of political and social reform. They remain an important historical record of this pivotal moment in world history.

Interviews with Shah of Iran and Ayatollah Khomeini is a series that ran for 1 seasons (2 episodes) between November 14, 1977 and on MacNeil/Lehrer Productions